Thomas Johnston
Born1708
DiedMay 8, 1767(1767-05-08) (aged 58–59)
NationalityAmerican
OccupationEngraver
Known fororgan building, engraving
Notable workfirst American engraved historical print, of the Battle of Lake George

American in Colonial Boston. Johnston the Colonial America was also manufacturer of church organs in the colonies. The pipe he built in 1758-1759 Boston's Old North Church in use until another organ replaced it in 1886.

Life and businesses

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The present organ in Old North Church

Johnston was born in 1708 in Boston, Massachusetts.[1] He was a member of the Brattle Street Church since June 5, 1726.[2]

Johnston's workshop was in his home's backyard.[3] While he advertised his businesses as being organ making, engraving, and furniture merchant,[4] he also worked as a japanner, painted coats of arms, and published books.[5] He was an engraver of skill, and a heraldic painter.[2] The paintings and engravings he sold in his store included views of Boston and heraldic works.[6] Furniture designs included rendering raised and embossed images into clocks and other furniture.[2]

References

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  1. ^ Stauffer 1907, p. 144.
  2. ^ a b c Dunlap 1918, pp. 311–312.
  3. ^ Williams 1915, p. 177.
  4. ^ "Japanned Furniture: An 18th Century Faux Finish". The News Journal. Wilmington, Delaware. May 7, 1998. p. 48 – via Newspapers.com  .
  5. ^ Hitchings 1973, p. 83.
  6. ^ "Boston Folks' Coat of Arms". The Boston Daily Globe. Boston, Massachusetts. February 7, 1915 – via Newspapers.com  .

Sources

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